Pelosi Statement on Unveiling of New Fuel Economy Labels

Contact: Nadeam Elshami/Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today after the U.S. Department of Transportation and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency unveiled new fuel economy labels that will help consumers take advantage of the Obama Administration’s increased efficiency standards:

“Today’s announcement by the Obama Administration builds on the efforts of Democrats in Congress to improve the fuel efficiency of vehicles on the road, save families money, and reduce harmful emissions. Democrats are proud to have led the way for a historic increase in fuel efficiency standards – the first such action in 32 years. Meanwhile, House Republicans have proposed cutting $1.5 billion dollars for upgrading American automotive plants to build advanced cars that people want to drive, a step backward in our effort to create jobs for working families.

“The new fuel economy labels will give consumers the information they need to take advantage of the new efficiency standards; as a result, they will be able to lower their energy costs and reduce their pain at the pump. This move will encourage American entrepreneurship, as innovators race to build the next generation of fuel-efficient vehicles. And it will underscore the truth that we all have a stake in addressing the greatest challenge of our time: the climate crisis.

“Today’s announcement represents progress toward a new energy policy for our nation that will reduce our dependence on foreign oil, strengthen our national security and create the next generation of good-paying jobs in a clean, green way. Democrats in Congress will continue to work with the Obama Administration to secure our clean energy future now.”